Time to Adopt One Small New Positive Habit

After reading this quote, you may be thinking, “This isn’t January 1, it’s November! Isn’t it a little late in the year to think about picking up good habits – especially right before the holidays?” to which I must respond “It’s NEVER too late to adopt a habit that makes you feel good.”

Indeed, small intentional changes in your life can lead to huge benefits – including more happiness, joy, peace … and even a greater sense of control. And small changes can be made by creating positive habits.

I suggest that TODAY, you identify a small good habit and adopt it as your own. And I mean small. Don’t become over-ambitious on this because you set yourself up for failure. Instead, take a baby step.

Personally, I make my bed every morning and hang up my clothes from the night before prior to starting my work day. I know that sounds routine, but returning home from the end of hectic day with a clean living space and an inviting bed provides a real sense of home – and peace.

I’ve also made it a habit to express gratitude for my life, health, family and friends the minute I awaken every morning. I start the day off with positivity and thankfulness – regardless of the challenges that may await me later. And it takes me two minutes.

Here are some other suggested habits designed to help simplify your life, and regain a sense of control when your days seem stressful and hectic:

·Tell at least one person every day how much you appreciate him or her.

·Make a habit to balance your checkbook so you know just how much money you have to spend.

·Do the dishes in the sink right after a meal – don’t wait until the next day.

·Floss your teeth every night.

·Don’t go to bed with makeup on.

·Save $5 a day. That adds up to $1,825 a year and in five years you will have $9,125. It’s a painless way to save.

·Call your parents/kids once a week and let them know you love them.

·Send a handwritten thank you note to someone who has taken you to dinner or bought you a gift or has given you joy.

·Eat at least one piece of fruit every day.

·Smoke one less cigarette a day, drink one less alcoholic beverage a week, eat one meatless meal a week.

Picking up a new, positive SMALL habit will work wonder for your moods – it is a gift to yourself. And soon, you will be thinking of more ways to be good to yourself. Through this positive approach, you will gain the strength, joy and vision needed to pursue your personal and professional passions.

Dr. Lori Baker-Schena is the founder and chief executive officer of Baker Schena Communications, a firm dedicated to “Unleashing Your Potential Through the Power of Words.” We offer motivational speaking, leadership consulting and medical writing services. Find us at www.loribakerschena.com